The first organized hockey game was played in Canada nearly 150 years ago. Despite a deep love and respect for the sport, it has been 28 years since a Canadian team won the sport’s biggest prize. With seven NHL teams currently playing in Canada, it is should not be long before one wins the Stanley Cup. These are the four Canadian teams with the best shot to bring the Cup home this season.

Edmonton Oilers

The Oilers have one of the deadliest offensive attacks in the NHL led by the last two MVP winners, Leon Draisaitl and Connor McDavid. The explosive offense has not let to much success in recent years, but it is only a matter of time before Edmonton figures out how to play on both ends of the rink. The Oilers have upped their defensive intensity early in the 2021-22 season while also leading the league in goals per game.

Calgary Flames

The Calgary Flames have not gotten to the second round of the playoffs since 2015, but they look poised to end that streak this year. Everyone on the roster has just found a way to step up their game. Calgary has currently surrendered the second-fewest goals in the league through 16 games. If the defense and goaltending can continue to play at a high level, then Calgary will be hard to beat.

Winnipeg Jets

The Jets may not play the prettiest hockey, but they find ways to win games. Their rough style typically translates well to the playoffs after a long season too. Winnipeg is currently sitting at the top of the Central division despite getting almost no contributions from star player Mark Scheifele. Winnipeg has the grit to outwork anyone, so they always have a chance to make a run in the playoffs.

Toronto Maple Leafs

Toronto is the only Canadian team in the Eastern Conference with a shot at the Stanley Cup. The road to the finals will not be easy with the league’s top three teams all playing in the East. The Maple Leafs are finding ways to win hockey games despite not scoring at a high rate. This team will be very scary if they can get more production from the second and third lines.